Obesity and Stroke

Though stroke occurs almost exclusively in adults, the epidemic of obesity in children is decreasing the average age of victims and putting our next generation more at risk for this debilitating, often deadly event. Since obese children are more likely to become obese as adults, they are also at greater risk for health problems as adults, including high blood pressure and stroke.

High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke and death rates due to stroke are nearly 45 percent, according to the American Heart Association. Excess weight and physical inactivity can both lead to high blood pressure. Therefore, to combat hypertension and limit stroke, diet and exercise remain paramount for individuals and as policy for schools, workplaces, insurers, states and the nation.

However, with more research into obesity, scientists could help cut short that progression from childhood to adult obesity. Obesity research holds the promise of findings that can lessen the rates and impact of hypertension, thereby limiting stroke before it strikes. Studies aimed at understanding the mechanics of obesity on chemical, cellular and system-wide levels, can also work to undercut hypertension and stroke.